Archdiocese of Philadelphia Family Life Marriage Preparation Resources
http://phillycatholiclife.org/marriage-and-family/preparing-for-marriage/
Philadelphia Natural Family Planning Network
Lily’s Gift
Archdiocesan Ministry for Couples who receive a poor prenatal diagnosis
EWTN: Global Catholic Network Get your Catholic news and information from a good source.
Our Lady of Czestochowa
Located in Doylestown, this shrine hosts many family events throughout the year.
Catholic Online
AmericanCatholic.org
http://www.americancatholic.org/
The Catholic Directory: Helps you find a church to attend mass no matter where you are!
http://www.thecatholicdirectory.com/
Catholic Answers
Christian Answers.net
Though not a Catholic site, it has a great feature to look up a movie, check what it is rated and WHY it has that rating.
Stress Management for Couples
Plan Ahead. Set Measurable goals together for your lifetime, five years from now, and a year from now.
Communicate realistic expectations clearly. Use ‘I’ statements rather than ‘you’ statements. “You’re always wanting to buy something else!” will probably not get your spouse to change. Try: “I get worried and angry when I hear you wanting to buy a new….” or “What I’d like is for the two of us to sit down and decide together which major purchases we can afford.” Then, especially on serious matters, listen well so that you can repeat back to your partner’s satisfaction what she or he says and feels.
Be flexible in your roles and attitudes. Letting others do things you usually do and relaxing your high standards can reduce pressures.
Negotiate. When problems arise, schedule time for the two of you to brainstorm. Weigh the costs and benefits of each solution. Arrive at a plan that enables both of you to get something you want.
Check in daily. Take a moment to inquire how your spouse is feeling. Look for early indications of stress—a furrowed brow, a tense voice.
Promote self-esteem. “One thing I really appreciate about you today is ….”
Schedule an evening a week to play together. To keep your marriage growing, take a break form the work and the children. If it helps, make it a rule to talk about only you as a couple.
Get in touch. Hold hands, hug each other show your affection. Physical contact can be one of the best stress relievers of all.
Laugh at yourselves. Remember, always being serious is crazy.
Celebrate…your anniversary, birthday, a home improvement, raise, etc.
Take time to relax and dream together.
Source: North Dakota Cooperative Extension (slightly edited) |
